When one begins something new, it is often overwhelming because of all the changes that need to be made. This is true in many aspects of life. When living a healthy lifestyle, there are so many components that blend together. This can make it hard to know what to do or where to start.  It is important to build a foundation first that will support a healthy lifestyle. 

Build A Foundation

Here are 5 areas that can build the foundation for healthy living.  These areas blend together.  However, it is too much to begin with all 5 of them at once.  The place the start is with one item.  Pick an area that sounds good to you. Once you become comfortable with it and have created a new habit, add another area.

• Get at least 30 minutes of activity every day
  • Begin with 30 min of walking every day for 30-60 days.  Hopefully this time frame will create a habit of being active daily that you will want to continue.
  • There are other ways of being active besides walking.  Some are: cleaning the house, weeding the garden, walking the dog, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, etc. The bottom line is to get up and move at least 30 minutes every day.
  • You can do the 30 min all at once or can spread it out during the day.  There is great benefit to moving throughout the day.  As an example, you can walk 3 times for 10 min each, or two times for 15 min. Once you complete your 30 min, be mindful about moving some during the remaining hours of the day.
• Eat whole and healthy foods
  • Weekly Meal Ideas
  • Select fruits and vegetables over processed foods
  • Go to the refrigerator for snacking instead of the pantry.  Have healthy snacks prepared and available.  Examples: carrot and celery sticks, cubed cheese, hummus, avocado slices, berries, grilled vegetables, 
• Keep yourself hydrated
  • Drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water everyday (if you weigh 140, then drink at least 70 ounces of water)
• Have a positive mind set
  • Look for the blessings in each situation.  “I walked for 30 minutes 4 out of 7 days this week.”  The blessing is completing 4 days, instead of focusing on the 3 days not completed.  
• Rest and get 7-8 hours of sleep
  • The three major benefits of sleep are:
    • It improves your memory and makes you more alert.
    • Sleep helps your muscles heal and reduces inflammation.
    • It helps to reduce stress.

Start with the basics. Build a foundation first that will support a healthy lifestyle. Which one of the 5 areas will you start with? If you are interested in a coaching partner to help you stay on track then let’s talk. You can also refer to 6 Ways to Make Exercise Part of Your Habit.